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Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid heartfelt tribute to Thiruvalluvar, the revered Tamil poet and philosopher, on the occasion of Thiruvalluvar Day. Acknowledging the timeless wisdom of his iconic work, the Tirukkural, the Prime Minister emphasized how the ancient text continues to serve as a beacon of inspiration for humanity.
Observed annually as part of the Pongal celebrations, Thiruvalluvar Day honors the life and teachings of the legendary poet, whose words have transcended centuries and continue to guide millions across the world.
PM Modi's Tribute to Thiruvalluvar
Taking to Twitter, Prime Minister Modi shared his deep admiration for Thiruvalluvar's contributions, saying:
"I bow to the great Thiruvalluvar on Thiruvalluvar Day. His timeless Tirukkural offers invaluable insights on human values, ethics, governance, and spirituality. It is a guiding light for humanity, showing us the path to righteousness and progress."
The Prime Minister’s tribute underscores the universal relevance of the Tirukkural, a literary masterpiece that transcends cultural and temporal boundaries. PM Modi has frequently highlighted the richness of Indian culture and the role of ancient texts like the Tirukkural in shaping moral and ethical values.
On Thiruvalluvar Day, we remember one of our land’s greatest philosophers, poets, and thinkers, the great Thiruvalluvar. His verses reflect the essence of Tamil culture and our philosophical heritage. His teachings emphasize righteousness, compassion, and justice. His timeless…
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) January 15, 2025
Who Was Thiruvalluvar?
Thiruvalluvar, also known as Valluvar, is one of the most celebrated figures in Tamil literature and philosophy. While the exact details of his life remain shrouded in mystery, scholars agree that he lived over 2,000 years ago and was a prominent poet, thinker, and philosopher.
Thiruvalluvar's magnum opus, the Tirukkural, is a collection of 1,330 couplets (kurals) divided into three sections:
- Aram (Virtue): Principles of ethics and morality.
- Porul (Wealth): Guidelines for governance, economy, and leadership.
- Inbam (Love): Insights on relationships and human emotions.
These couplets offer profound wisdom on various aspects of life, including governance, ethics, love, and social harmony, making the text a universal guide for personal and societal well-being.
The Relevance of the Tirukkural Today
In his tribute, PM Modi highlighted the timeless appeal of the Tirukkural, which continues to hold relevance in modern times. The text's concise and thought-provoking couplets have inspired not just Tamil-speaking populations but also global audiences who appreciate its universal values.
Some key themes from the Tirukkural that resonate even today include:
- Integrity in Leadership: Guidance for rulers and leaders to prioritize justice and the welfare of their people.
- Value of Education: Insights on the transformative power of knowledge and learning.
- Equality and Harmony: Advocacy for social justice, inclusivity, and respect for all individuals.
- Environmental Sustainability: Emphasis on living in harmony with nature and preserving resources for future generations.
Thiruvalluvar Day: A Celebration of Tamil Heritage
Thiruvalluvar Day is observed on the second day of the Pongal festival in Tamil Nadu. This day celebrates the poet's contributions to Tamil literature, culture, and philosophy. Across Tamil Nadu and the Tamil diaspora, various events are organized to honor Thiruvalluvar's legacy, including cultural programs, public readings of the Tirukkural, and discussions on its relevance in today’s world.
The poet's enduring influence is also evident in his widespread recognition outside Tamil Nadu. A towering statue of Thiruvalluvar stands in Kanyakumari, symbolizing his far-reaching impact on literature and philosophy.
Global Recognition of the Tirukkural
The Tirukkural is often regarded as a universal scripture due to its profound insights that transcend cultural and linguistic barriers. It has been translated into over 40 languages, making it one of the most widely read and respected texts in the world.
Prominent leaders and thinkers, including Mahatma Gandhi, have praised the Tirukkural for its emphasis on ethical living and human values. Gandhi referred to it as a "text for all time" and an inspiration for his principles of non-violence and truth.
PM Modi’s acknowledgment of Thiruvalluvar and the Tirukkural on Thiruvalluvar Day serves as a reminder of the rich heritage that India possesses and the importance of preserving and promoting it on global platforms.
Why Thiruvalluvar’s Teachings Matter Today
In an era marked by rapid technological advancements, societal changes, and environmental challenges, the teachings of Thiruvalluvar remain profoundly relevant. His timeless words inspire individuals to adopt values of compassion, justice, and sustainable living, ensuring that progress is aligned with ethical principles.
Thiruvalluvar’s insights on leadership, for instance, can guide policymakers and leaders to prioritize the welfare of the people over personal gains. His advocacy for social equality and harmony offers solutions to bridging divides in increasingly polarized societies.
PM Modi and the Promotion of India’s Heritage
PM Modi’s tribute on Thiruvalluvar Day is part of his broader efforts to highlight India’s cultural richness and literary heritage. Over the years, the Prime Minister has consistently emphasized the need to draw inspiration from India’s ancient texts and use their wisdom to address modern challenges.
By acknowledging Thiruvalluvar’s contributions, PM Modi has reinforced the importance of the Tirukkural as a guiding light for humanity. His message calls on people to revisit the lessons of this timeless text and incorporate them into their daily lives.
